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Voya Financial Trades Near 52-Week High: Time to Hold the Stock?
ZACKS· 2026-01-08 15:36
Core Insights - Voya Financial, Inc. (VOYA) shares closed at $77.34, close to its 52-week high, indicating strong investor confidence and potential for further price appreciation [2] - The stock is trading above its 50-day and 200-day simple moving averages, suggesting solid upward momentum [2] Market Performance - Voya Financial has a market capitalization of $7.45 billion, with an average trading volume of 0.7 million shares over the last three months [3] - The stock has gained 6.1% over the last six months, compared to the industry growth of 13.5% [8] - Voya Financial has outperformed peers such as Reinsurance Group of America, Sun Life Financial, and Primerica in the same period [10] Valuation Metrics - Voya Financial shares are trading at a price-to-book value of 1.07X, which is lower than the Zacks Life Insurance industry average of 2.04X, suggesting a better entry point for investors [4] - The average price target from 11 analysts is $85.00 per share, indicating a potential upside of 9.13% from the last closing price [12] Growth Drivers - Voya's growth is supported by strong performance in its Retirement, Investment Management, and Employee Benefits segments [7] - The Retirement segment is experiencing growth due to onboarded assets, favorable market conditions, and disciplined spending [15] - The Investment Management segment benefits from higher capital returns and fee revenues, bolstered by a strategic partnership with Allianz [16][17] - The Employee Benefits segment is expected to improve due to lower premium-driven expenses and higher alternative investment income [18] Financial Health - Voya generated over $0.2 billion of excess capital in Q3 2025, representing approximately 90% of after-tax adjusted operating earnings [19] - The company ended Q3 2025 with approximately $350 million of excess capital and a strong balance sheet [19] - Voya plans to return between $100 million and $150 million in dividends and share repurchases throughout 2026 [20] Strategic Outlook - Voya Financial is well-positioned for growth due to improved investment income, favorable market conditions, and strategic partnerships [22] - The company is expected to continue benefiting from its solid dividend history, growth projections, and attractive valuations [23]
UNM Stock Trading at a Discount to Industry at 1.2X: Time to Hold?
ZACKS· 2025-12-15 16:31
Key Takeaways UNM expects 2025 premium growth of 3-6%, operating ROE of 21-23%, and EPS of about $8.50. Unum's Unum U.S. and Colonial Life see strong sales, new dental and vision lines, and risk results. UNM raised its dividend 10% in Q2 2025 and plans buybacks within its $500M-$1B range. Unum Group (UNM) shares are trading at a discount compared to the Zacks Accident and Health Insurance industry. Its forward price-to-book value of 1.2X is lower than the industry average of 1.75X, the Finance sector’s 4.28 ...
RGA Stock Trades Above 50-Day SMA: What Should Investors Do?
ZACKS· 2025-12-05 15:06
Core Insights - Reinsurance Group of America (RGA) is currently trading above its 50-day simple moving average, indicating a short-term bullish trend, with a share price of $192.61, down 17.3% from its 52-week high of $232.97 [1] - RGA has a market capitalization of $12.73 billion, with an average trading volume of 0.4 million shares over the last three months [2] Valuation Metrics - RGA shares are trading at a price-to-book value of 0.97X, which is lower than the industry average of 1.86X, the Finance sector's 4.23X, and the Zacks S&P 500 Composite's 8.53X, indicating a better entry point for investors [3] - The average target price for RGA, based on estimates from 10 analysts, is $239.10 per share, suggesting a potential upside of 26.29% from the last closing price [11] Financial Performance - RGA's revenue for 2025 is estimated at $23.55 billion, reflecting a year-over-year improvement of 3%, with projected increases of 18.1% in earnings per share and 11% in revenues for 2026 [10] - The return on invested capital (ROIC) for RGA has increased annually, reaching 5.52% in the trailing 12 months, significantly higher than the industry average of 0.6% [13] Market Position and Growth Drivers - RGA is a leader in the U.S. and Latin American markets, with a strong product line and capabilities that support stable earnings and capital generation [14] - The company anticipates growth driven by global protection demand and rising retirement and savings needs, particularly in the Canadian market where longevity insurance is expected to see steady demand [18][19] Operational Efficiency - RGA has maintained a free cash flow conversion rate of over 85% in recent quarters, indicating solid earnings and effective capital management [20] - The company is actively managing capital through share buybacks, dividend payments, and prudent investments, while also seeking attractive growth opportunities [21] Long-term Outlook - RGA's new business volumes, favorable longevity experience, diversified business model, and effective capital deployment are expected to favor the company in the long term [22]
Reinsurance Group Trades Below 50-Day SMA: How to Play the Stock?
ZACKS· 2025-09-16 18:05
Core Viewpoint - Reinsurance Group of America (RGA) is currently experiencing a short-term bearish trend as its shares are trading below the 50-day simple moving average (SMA) [1] Group 1: Price Performance - RGA shares have declined by 11.4% year-to-date, contrasting with the industry's gain of 1.3% [2] - The Finance sector and the Zacks S&P 500 Composite have increased by 13.9% and 12.8%, respectively, during the same period [2] Group 2: Valuation Metrics - RGA shares are trading at a price-to-book value of 1.03X, which is lower than the industry average of 1.93X, indicating they are affordable [4] - The company has a market capitalization of $12.5 billion and an average trading volume of 0.4 million shares over the last three months [4] Group 3: Revenue and Earnings Projections - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for RGA's 2025 revenues is $23.5 billion, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 3% [6] - The current-year earnings estimate is $22.40 per share, while the 2026 earnings per share and revenues are projected to increase by 14.6% and 10.5%, respectively, from 2025 estimates [9][10] Group 4: Business Strategy and Growth Drivers - RGA's in-force portfolio and product expansion are expected to support long-term earnings diversification [8] - The company benefits from a balanced mix of organic initiatives and transactional opportunities, with a strong foundation in its individual mortality business [13] - Advancements in product design, underwriting, analytics, and innovation are anticipated to drive growth [14] Group 5: Investment Income and Financial Performance - RGA's net investment income has shown a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.2% from 2016 to 2024, supported by a larger asset base and higher risk-free rates [15] - In the second quarter, income after expenses rose by 30.1% year-over-year to $1.4 billion, with an average yield increase of 66 basis points [15] Group 6: Debt and Financial Flexibility - RGA's long-term borrowings reached $5.73 billion as of June 30, 2025, marking a 13.7% increase from the end of 2024 [17] - The debt-to-capital ratio for the trailing 12 months stood at 47.22, significantly above the industry average of 16.79, indicating elevated leverage [17] Group 7: Shareholder Value and Dividends - RGA has increased its dividend five times over the past five years, resulting in a five-year annualized growth rate of 6.3% and a current payout ratio of 17% [18] Group 8: Analyst Sentiment - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 earnings has decreased by 1.5% in the past 30 days, while the estimate for 2026 earnings has increased by 0.4% [10] - The average price target from 10 analysts suggests a potential upside of 22.3% from the last closing price, with a target of $235 per share [12]
MTG Outperforms Industry, Hits 52-Week High: How to Play the Stock
ZACKS· 2025-09-01 15:36
Core Insights - MGIC Investment Corporation (MTG) has reached a 52-week high of $28.67, closing at $27.83, with a year-to-date gain of 17.4%, outperforming its industry and the S&P 500 composite [2] - The company has a market capitalization of $6.41 billion, with an average trading volume of 2.1 million shares over the last three months [3] - MTG is trading above its 50-day and 200-day simple moving averages, indicating strong upward momentum [4] Financial Performance - MTG is expanding its insurance-in-force portfolio through robust new business and high annual persistency [7] - The company has a price-to-book value of 1.25X, significantly lower than the industry average of 2.48X, making it an attractive entry point for investors [8] - The return on invested capital (ROIC) has improved to 11.2%, well above the industry average of 2% [9] - Earnings have grown by 12% over the past five years, surpassing the industry average of 9.8% [11] Growth Projections - The Zacks Consensus Estimate projects a 3.4% year-over-year increase in earnings per share for 2025, with revenues expected to reach $1.23 billion, reflecting a 0.9% increase [10] - Analysts have raised their estimates for 2025 and 2026, with the consensus for 2025 earnings moving up by 4.1% [13] Market Dynamics - New business and solid annual persistency are expected to drive growth, supported by increased home sales and refinancing activity [16] - The company is witnessing a decline in claim filings, which will strengthen its financial profile [16] - MTG is enhancing its capital position through capital contributions and reinsurance transactions, with $742.2 million remaining in its authorization for share repurchases through December 2026 [17] Strategic Outlook - Higher premiums, excellent credit quality, and new business are anticipated to continue driving growth for MGIC Investment [18] - The company engages in share buybacks as part of wealth distribution to shareholders, reflecting its capital strength and financial performance [18] - Optimistic analyst sentiment and favorable ROIC are expected to benefit MGIC Investment in the long term [19]
TRV Stock Near 52-Week High: A Signal for Investors to Hold Tight?
ZACKS· 2025-08-22 15:56
Core Insights - The Travelers Companies, Inc. (TRV) shares closed at $274.92, close to its 52-week high of $277.83, indicating strong investor confidence and potential for further price appreciation [1] - The stock is trading above its 50-day and 200-day simple moving averages, suggesting solid upward momentum [1] Financial Performance - Travelers has consistently beaten earnings estimates, with an average surprise of 89.97% over the last four quarters [2] - The company’s shares have increased by 23.9% over the past year, outperforming the Finance sector and the Zacks S&P 500 composite [3] Valuation Metrics - TRV shares are trading at a price-to-book value of 2.1X, higher than the industry average of 1.53X, indicating a premium valuation [8] - The average target price for TRV is $293.86, suggesting a potential upside of 7.1% from the last closing price [11] Growth Projections - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Travelers' 2025 revenues is $48.86 billion, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 5.1% [9] - Analysts have raised earnings estimates for 2025 and 2026, with increases of 5.1% and 1.9%, respectively, over the past 30 days [10] Return on Investment - The return on equity (ROE) for the trailing 12 months was 18.69%, significantly higher than the industry average of 7.6% [14] - Return on invested capital (ROIC) was 10.8%, also outperforming the industry average of 5.9% [15] Strategic Initiatives - Travelers is positioned for growth through high retention rates, favorable pricing, and new business gains, with plans to launch new products in the Bond & Specialty segment in 2025 [7][17] - The company expects Q3 investment income of $770 million and Q4 income of $805 million, supported by a $100 billion investment portfolio [18] Market Position - Travelers has a strong presence in the U.S. property-casualty insurance market, with a diversified portfolio across nine distinct lines of business [16][20] - The company has been increasing its book value for the past 10 years and maintains a conservative balance sheet [19] Dividend Policy - Travelers has increased dividends for 21 consecutive years, with a dividend yield of 1.7%, which is attractive compared to the industry average of 0.2% [21]
Brighthouse Financial Trades Below 50-Day SMA: How to Play the Stock?
ZACKS· 2025-08-21 18:55
Core Viewpoint - Brighthouse Financial, Inc. (BHF) is experiencing a short-term bearish trend as it trades below its 50-day simple moving average (SMA), which is a key indicator for identifying support and resistance levels [1] Price Performance - BHF shares have declined by 2.8% year-to-date, while the industry has seen a decline of 1.6%. In contrast, the Finance sector and the Zacks S&P 500 Composite have increased by 10.6% and 8.9%, respectively [2] - The market capitalization of Brighthouse Financial is $2.7 billion, with an average trading volume of 0.8 million shares over the last three months [2] Valuation Metrics - BHF shares are trading at a price-to-book value of 0.47X, significantly lower than the industry average of 1.87X, indicating that the shares are affordable compared to peers [4] Sales Performance - Life insurance sales grew by 17.8% in Q2 2025, reaching $33 million, while annuity sales rose by 8.4% year-over-year to $2.6 billion, driven by strong demand for fixed annuities [7][14] - Total expenses surged by 68% to $3.5 billion in the first half of 2025, with long-term debt reaching $3.2 billion [7] Revenue and Earnings Projections - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 revenues is $8.9 billion, reflecting a year-over-year improvement of 1.5%. The current-year earnings estimate is $18.24 per share, down 7.1% from the previous year [8] - For 2026, earnings per share and revenues are projected to increase by 19.4% and 3%, respectively [8] Analyst Sentiment - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 earnings has decreased by 0.8% over the past week, while the estimate for 2026 has increased by 0.2% [9] Target Price and Upside Potential - The average price target for BHF, based on short-term projections from 10 analysts, is $56.90 per share, suggesting a potential upside of 23.4% from the last closing price [10] Strategic Initiatives - Brighthouse Financial is focused on expanding life insurance sales, enhancing annuity products, and extending its distribution reach to capture growth in the individual insurance market [13] - The company is reshaping its product lineup to meet changing client demands, including the introduction of SecureKey fixed indexed annuities and SmartGuard Plus, its first universal life product tied to market indexes [16] Financial Challenges - Despite solid fundamentals, Brighthouse Financial faces challenges from rising expenses, higher policyholder claims, and weakening margins, with total expenses increasing significantly [18] - The company's long-term debt has risen to $3.2 billion, resulting in a debt-to-equity ratio of 55%, which is considerably higher than the industry average of 16.7% [19] Conclusion - Brighthouse Financial is gaining traction through strong annuity sales and improving life insurance momentum, but rising expenses and high debt levels present notable challenges that could impact long-term performance [20]
FAF Stock Near 52-Week High: A Signal for Investors to Hold Tight?
ZACKS· 2025-08-20 16:01
Core Viewpoint - First American Financial Corporation (FAF) is experiencing strong investor confidence, with shares closing at $64.88, near its 52-week high of $70.92, indicating potential for further price appreciation [1] Price Performance - FAF shares have gained 4.2% over the past year, although this is below the industry's growth of 6.8% [3] Earnings Surprise History - The company has a solid track record of beating earnings estimates, with an average surprise of 20.30% over the last four quarters [2] Growth Projections - FAF anticipates modest improvements in residential purchase and refinance businesses for 2025, driven by direct premiums, escrow fees, and title agent premiums [7][14] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for FAF's 2025 earnings per share indicates a year-over-year increase of 16.1%, with revenues expected to reach $7.10 billion, reflecting a 15.8% improvement [8] Analyst Sentiment - Analysts have raised earnings estimates for FAF, with a 2.6% increase for 2025 and a 1.2% increase for 2026 over the past 30 days [9] Price Target - The average price target for FAF is $77 per share, suggesting a potential upside of 20.4% from the last closing price [10] Valuation Metrics - FAF shares are trading at a forward price-to-book value of 1.28X, lower than the industry average of 1.52X, indicating affordability [11] Return on Equity - The company's return on equity (ROE) stands at 10.4%, outperforming the industry average of 7.6%, showcasing efficiency in utilizing shareholders' funds [12] Key Growth Drivers - Increased demand for first-time home purchases among millennials, along with an improving economy and labor market, is expected to drive home price appreciation [13][14] - The company is focused on enhancing its product offerings and expanding its valuation and data businesses, which should contribute to long-term growth [15] Shareholder Returns - FAF is committed to returning wealth to shareholders through dividend hikes and share buybacks, with a dividend yield and payout ratio better than the industry average [15]
CNA Financial Trades Above 50-Day SMA: How to Play the Stock?
ZACKS· 2025-08-13 18:10
Core Viewpoint - CNA Financial Corporation is experiencing a short-term bullish trend as its shares trade above key moving averages, despite a recent decline from its 52-week high [1][5]. Group 1: Price Performance - CNA Financial shares have decreased by 1% over the past year, underperforming compared to its industry and the broader market, which saw growth rates of 7.9%, 19%, and 18.1% respectively [2]. - The current market capitalization of CNA Financial is $12.9 billion, with an average trading volume of 0.5 million shares over the last three months [2]. Group 2: Valuation Metrics - CNA Financial shares are trading at a forward price-to-book value of 1.21X, which is lower than the industry average of 1.42X, indicating a discount compared to peers [4]. - The company has a Value Score of B, suggesting it is relatively affordable within the property and casualty insurance sector [4]. Group 3: Revenue and Earnings Projections - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CNA's 2025 revenues is $13.4 billion, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 5.4% [5]. - The current-year earnings estimate is $4.39 per share, with projections for 2026 indicating an increase of 8.4% in earnings per share and 3.5% in revenues compared to 2025 [6][7]. Group 4: Investment Income and Challenges - Net investment income for CNA rose by 7.1% to $662 million, driven by gains in fixed-income and equity investments [5][13]. - The company faces challenges from rising expenses and catastrophe risks, which could impact profitability [5][15]. Group 5: Growth and Underwriting Performance - CNA Financial has consistently reported growth in gross premiums written across all segments, supported by a strong product portfolio and improved retention [11]. - The combined ratio of its property and casualty business has shown substantial improvement, indicating stronger underwriting profitability [11]. Group 6: Market Outlook - The average price target for CNA shares is $49, suggesting a potential upside of 3.5% from the last closing price [8]. - The company has shown resilience in premium growth and investment results, but ongoing exposure to catastrophe losses and rising claims expenses remain concerns [16].
MTG Hits 52-Week High: Time to Add the Stock for Better Returns?
ZACKS· 2025-06-25 15:26
Core Insights - MGIC Investment Corporation (MTG) has reached a 52-week high of $28.28, closing at $28.10, with an 18.5% year-to-date gain, outperforming its industry and the S&P 500 composite [2] - The company has a market capitalization of $6.67 billion, with an average trading volume of 1.9 million shares over the last three months [3] - MTG is trading above its 50-day and 200-day simple moving averages, indicating strong upward momentum [4] Financial Performance - MTG is expanding its insurance-in-force portfolio through robust new business and high annual persistency [6] - The company has a price-to-book value of 1.3X, which is lower than the industry average of 2.68X, providing a favorable entry point for investors [7] - Return on invested capital (ROIC) has improved to 11.4%, significantly higher than the industry average of 2% [8] Growth Projections - The Zacks Consensus Estimate projects a 0.3% year-over-year increase in earnings per share for 2025, with revenues expected to reach $1.24 billion, reflecting a 1.8% improvement [9] - Earnings have grown by 12% over the past five years, surpassing the industry average of 10.1% [9] - MTG has consistently exceeded earnings estimates in the last four quarters, with an average surprise of 15.88% [10] Analyst Sentiment - Analysts have raised their earnings estimates for MTG for 2025 and 2026, with increases of 6.2% and 5.9%, respectively, over the past 60 days [14] - The company has a VGM Score of B, indicating potential upside and strong investor confidence [19] Market Dynamics - Factors driving MTG's growth include increased new business, solid persistency, and a favorable environment for home sales and refinancing [16] - The company is experiencing a decline in claim filings, which is expected to enhance its financial profile [16] - MTG has a solid capital position, with $232.9 million remaining in its share repurchase authorization through December 2026 [17] Conclusion - Higher premiums, excellent credit quality, and new business are anticipated to drive growth for MGIC Investment [18] - The company's share buyback activities reflect its strong capital position and commitment to generating long-term value for shareholders [18]